by Contributor
(Sep. 21. 2021) – Injuries and deaths related to car accidents happen all over the world. The CDC lists road crashes as the leading cause of death in American citizens between one and 54 years of age. In low- and middle-income countries, road fatalities are three times worse than what’s seen in high income countries.
With such alarming numbers, it is advisable to be prepared in case you get involved in a car accident. Below are some tips to help you respond to a car accident.
Alarming Car Accident Statistics
Americans have stayed locked inside their homes for the better part of 2020 and 2021. With only essential workers allowed to keep working, you would expect that traffic accidents would be down substantially. That is not the case.
Reports show that the first nine months of 2020 had a 4.6 percent increase in the number of car accident fatalities compared to the same period in 2019.
How Can You Respond to Road Accidents?
1. Clear the Road
In case the car accident does not substantially damage your car, your first action should be moving the car to the side of the road. Doing so prevents traffic build up and allows other drivers to continue using the road.
If you can’t move the car, switch on your emergency flashers to warn other drivers. Ask any occupants in your car to remain calm and exit the car. Nobody should leave the scene before law enforcement arrives.
2. Call the Police
Dial 911 and report the incident to the police. Ensure that you give necessary details in the phone call to allow the police to respond. Supply details such as your location, the number of occupants in the cars, and the severity of the accident.
If anyone sustained any serious injuries, it might be a good idea to also call an ambulance for them so that they can receive emergency medical attention.
3. Exchange Information with the Other Driver
Speak to the other driver and exchange information. Collect their name, insurance information, and contact details. Don’t hesitate to give out your details, as well. Insurance companies require these details when you file a claim for compensation.
When interacting with the other driver, it is important to be polite. Refrain from letting emotions run high even if you think they are to blame. Keep in mind that you should also not admit liability for the accident.
4. Contact an Attorney
Car accidents can spiral out of control and lead to one driver suing the other for injuries and damages. With that in mind, it is good to engage a car accident law firm from the moment the accident happens.
The attorney can help you navigate any legal processes and help you claim compensation for any injuries you sustain.
5. Notify Your Insurance Provider
Contact your insurance provider and let them know about the accident. Insurance companies exist to help you pay for some of the damages in an accident, as stipulated in the insurance policy.
The company can send an agent to the accident scene for inspection or ask you to send them pictures of the scene and the other driver’s details.
Accidents Shouldn’t Keep You off the Road
Sure, everyone dreads getting involved in a car accident. However, don’t let it get to you. The good news is that accidents only happen to a small number of road users.
With the tips mentioned above, you now know how to handle the aftermath of a car accident.